Navigating Florida’s roads requires a clear understanding of the state’s right-of-way laws. These rules are designed to ensure the safety of all road users, including drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. Familiarizing yourself with these regulations can help prevent accidents and avoid potential fines or penalties.

Intersections with Stop Signs

At intersections controlled by stop signs, the following rules apply:

Single Stop Sign: Drivers must come to a complete stop and yield to all other traffic and pedestrians before proceeding. Move forward only when the road is clear.

Four-Way Stops: The first vehicle to stop at the intersection should proceed first. If two vehicles arrive simultaneously, the driver on the left yields to the driver on the right.

Open Intersections

An open intersection lacks traffic control signs or signals. In such cases, drivers must yield the right-of-way if:

A vehicle is already in the intersection.

Entering or crossing a state highway from a secondary road.

Entering a paved road from an unpaved road.

Planning to make a left turn and a vehicle is approaching from the opposite direction.

Yield Signs

When approaching a yield sign, drivers should slow down to a reasonable speed and stop if necessary. After slowing or stopping, they must yield the right-of-way to any vehicle in the intersection or approaching on another highway so closely as to constitute an immediate hazard.

Entering a Roadway

Drivers entering a road from a driveway, alley, or roadside must yield to vehicles already on the main road. Additionally, motorists must yield to bicyclists and pedestrians on the sidewalk.

Pedestrian Crosswalks

Drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks. This is especially important when turning at an intersection or when a pedestrian is crossing without a traffic light.

Emergency Vehicles

All vehicles must yield the right-of-way to emergency vehicles with active sirens and flashing lights by pulling over to the closest edge of the roadway and stopping until the emergency vehicle has passed. Do not block intersections.

Roundabouts

In roundabouts, all traffic must travel counterclockwise. Drivers must yield to any vehicle already in the roundabout and may not change lanes or stop within it. If the roundabout has multiple lanes, position yourself in the correct lane before entering.

“Move Over” Law

Florida’s “Move Over” law requires drivers to move over a lane—or slow down if they cannot move over—when approaching stopped emergency vehicles, sanitation vehicles, utility service vehicles, or tow trucks displaying warning lights. This law is designed to protect workers and law enforcement officers on the roadside.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Violating right-of-way laws can lead to severe penalties, including fines, points on your driving record, increased insurance premiums, and even license suspension. For instance, failing to yield at a stop sign can result in a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a moving violation.

Understanding and adhering to Florida’s right-of-way laws is essential for the safety of all road users. By following these guidelines, drivers can contribute to a safer driving environment and avoid potential legal consequences.